Linn County has been made aware that individuals have been going door-to-door in some areas of Linn County impacted by the recent storms and are claiming to be FEMA inspectors or to work for FEMA inspectors and are offering to help homeowners clean up from the recent storms and conduct home assessments or repairs for a fee.
Linn County wants residents to know that FEMA inspectors are not in Linn County conducting assessments at this time. If FEMA inspectors were to arrive in Linn County, they would work with local government officials and would ALWAYS have appropriate identification. When in doubt, always ask to see identification.
Linn County inspectors from the Planning and Development Department are out in the field assisting homeowners in storm-impacted areas. However, Linn County staff are not charging a fee for their service, they wear shirts identifying them as staff from the Linn County Planning and Development Department and their vehicles are also prominently identified with Linn County’s logo. Residents can call the Planning and Development Department at 319-892-5130 to verify if county inspectors are on site.
Residents are reminded to be wary of unsolicited help from a contractor who shows up in an unmarked vehicle and claims they can do the work you need. Say no to a deal that is based on “extra materials,” someone demanding an immediate decision, a contractor who only accepts cash, or a contractor who insists on full payment in advance. Residents are encouraged to use reputable, licensed contractors on home repairs projects. The Linn County Planning and Development Department can assist property owners who would like to verify if contractors are registered with the State of Iowa.
If you feel you have been the victim of repair or consumer fraud, contact your local police department or the Linn County Sheriff’s Office at 319-892-6100 if you live in an area of Linn County that does not have a local police department.